QLD to Host Lesiure Expo

Organisers of the 15th annual Australian Amusement, Leisure and Recreation Association (AALARA) expo are making a final call for registrations as the Gold Coast gets ready to host the event at the end of the month.

The AALARA’s primary mission – to demonstrated the value of leisure activities – will be explored in a conference program attended and run by event organisers, small business owners and operators of some of Australia’s leading amusement parks.

Delegates at the AALARA expo will get the chance to
visit the Gold Goast’s leading theme parks

AALARA president Stan Durkin stressed the mission was more important than ever in times of economic uncertainty and it was business as usual for the amusement, leisure and recreation sectors.

“The amusement industry appears to be more resilient than many others and is surviving the conditions well. Some agricultural shows are actually reporting an increase in attendance and turnover,” he said.

“Additionally, there are a number of major aquatic and leisure parks currently in development. We are expecting to some fantastic new additions to the leisure market in Australia over the next few years.”

The AALARA expo will also give delegates the opportunity to view new products and technology at an accompanying tradeshow and provide a range of experiential and educational activities relevant to a board spectrum of industries.

“So far, the delegates are coming from a wide cross section of the business sector. The program seems to offer something for everyone,” Durkin said. “The conference will also be of interest to small business owners looking to start up in the amusement industry.”

The AALARA expo will take place at Conrad Jupiters Hotel

Conference highlights will include an education session on how to manage marketing and new media by Clemenger Harvie Edge Group chairman Ron Barnacle; a behind-the-scenes look at Australia’s Big Day Out festival with festival organiser Matt Doherty; a simulated court room session where a ride operator; and a tour of three leading theme park and attraction sites.

Durkin encouraged representatives of the amusement, leisure and recreation business to attend the AALARA to grow and support the industry’s future. “Attending this year’s AALARA conference is a great way to gain new insights, to network and think creatively about building your business,” he said.